How do I keep Cream Cheese Sausage Balls from going flat?

If your sausage balls flatten during baking, it’s usually due to overly warm ingredients or overmixing. To avoid this, chill the shaped balls in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes before baking. Using a cookie scoop helps ensure even sizing and firm shaping, which prevents spreading in the oven.

Can I prepare Cream Cheese Sausage Balls ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are perfect for prepping ahead. You can form them into balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen — just add 3–5 minutes to the cook time.

Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?

Yes, simply substitute regular Bisquick with a certified gluten-free Bisquick mix . Make sure your sausage and cream cheese are also gluten-free (check labels for hidden gluten). With this simple swap, you can enjoy a gluten-free version of Cream Cheese Sausage Balls without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

Name: Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb hot sausage: adds spicy, savory flavor; 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: provides moisture and creaminess; 1 1/4 cups Bisquick: binds the mixture and adds fluffy texture; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: gives a rich, cheesy taste

Description

Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are the ultimate 4-ingredient party appetizer — tender, cheesy, and full of flavor. Made with spicy sausage, smooth cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and fluffy Bisquick, these sausage balls are perfect for tailgates, holidays, or brunch spreads. They’re quick to prepare, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to be a hit with guests.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb hot sausage: adds spicy, savory flavor
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened: provides moisture and creaminess
1 1/4 cups Bisquick: binds the mixture and adds fluffy texture
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: gives a rich, cheesy taste

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine hot sausage, softened cream cheese, Bisquick, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Mix until ingredients are well incorporated and form a sticky dough.
Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
Place balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 18–22 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce if desired.

Notes

Do not add extra Bisquick, even if the dough seems sticky — it ensures moist sausage balls.
To prevent flattening, chill formed balls before baking or freeze prior to baking.
Use mild sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter or less spicy version.
These can be frozen uncooked; bake from frozen with a few extra minutes.
Serve with ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ for a delicious dipping experience.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 sausage balls
Calories: 180
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg